Need expert assistance! Computer is not running Skyrim as it shoul

[mindistime]

Hello all,

 

I recently purchased an Alienware computer that has an NVidia GeForce GTX 660 video card and 16GB of ram (it does run windows 8). I have a SSD.

 

I was really looking forward to making the transition from console to PC on Skyrim but have been dismayed as, even without a single mod, my computer appears unable to run the game on anything but a super choppy/laggy basis. This blows me away because I would think my computer would have handled Skyrim with ease.

 

I must be doing something wrong. Can anyone lend a hand to help me resolve this?

[pheo3309]

Have you tweaked the settings at all in the ini? And curious, have you verified the install through Steam? Used to have uber slow/chuggy gameplay, even after tweaking it, then I verified the installation through Steam and after that, I wasn't chugging. Except on medium, but then again, mine's not a high end PC.

[mindistime]

I've tweaked some settings in the ini, but have put them all back to default as none seemed to fix the issue (would rather start with a baseline case before I start messing with things to fix it).

 

I have verified the install through Steam, and it does give me a failed to validate and to be reacquired message... Maybe I will try to reinstall it?

[Mattias2]

I also have an Alienware computer, but not as powerful as yours (8GB RAM, GeForce GT650QM), and I have no problems running it on ultra settings (except now I have problems when I have have 70 odd mods running), so there's obviously something else going on with your computer/game. Try reinstalling and make sure it's up to date.

[Georgiegril]

Have you updated to the latest drivers? Also, have you checked your driver interface program (like NVidia Inspector) to make sure your drivers are properly set for skyrim? There have been some issues with drivers automatically setting to looking at the CPU rather than the graphics card, for example, or forcing 2 cards when only 1 was installed. You might also want to look at the Geforce Tweak Guide to maximize your graphics--its a little old now, but most of the info is still valid. I'd also check to make sure you are running at the native resolution for your monitor, and that your game, card, and monitor are all communicating properly.